South Shore Line

“I think that really is probably the biggest thing I’ve learned coming up to Northern Indiana is that we are a part of the community, and as quickly as I can get in and establish myself and get to know everybody and start building those relationships, the better,” said newly-appointed NICTD President David Dech.

The South Shore Line's operator, the Northern Indiana Commuter Transportation District, on Tuesday announced plans for gates, lights and bells at a pedestrian crossing in Chicago where 22-year-old Dyer, IN native Grace Bentkowski was killed by a train in 2024.

“There are places on our rail line that it’s a mile and a half between the rail line and the nearest road, so if you have a situation and you have an emergency service situation, we didn’t want to risk that,” Northern Indiana Commuter Transportation District President Mike Noland said Monday.

"It has just been absolutely the opportunity of my lifetime to run this railroad," said NICTD President Mike Noland. "I think it’s the best job in America."

The South Shore Line believes it’s secured the local funding needed for a shorter route to South Bend International Airport and has finalized a site for a planned New Carlisle station.

Fallen leaves are coating South Shore Line tracks and causing slick spots. The railroad says new equipment and slower speeds are helping reduce delays.

Earlier this year, the state of Indiana committed $28 million, despite a very competitive budget cycle. The Northern Indiana Commuter Transportation District itself has committed $6 million.

The $650 million South Shore project will cut travel times dramatically

More service is coming to the South Shore Line, starting May 14. The railroad is overhauling its schedule with the completion of its Double Track project.

The South Shore line will stop bussing between Gary and Dune Park on April 9.